Acueducto de San Telmo

Acueducto de San Telmo is an 18th-century aqueduct in Málaga, one of the most significant works of Spanish hydraulic engineering from that era, standing in the Ciudad Jardín district.

Why was an aqueduct needed in Málaga?

Through the 1700s, Málaga's population and trade were growing fast, and the city's existing wells and fountains could no longer keep up with demand for fresh water. The project was championed by José de Molina Lario y Navarro, bishop of the Málaga diocese, who commissioned architect José Martín de Aldehuela, an engineer already experienced in hydraulic works. King Carlos III approved the plan by royal decree on 21 September 1782, and construction ran for two years, from October 1782 to September 1784.

How does it work, and what can you see today?

The aqueduct channels water from the Guadalmedina river into the city over a stretch of 10.8 km. Along the route are 33 bridges, 30 aqueduct sections, and several storage tanks (arcas) that regulated the flow. One notable engineering detail is its dual-channel design: two parallel conduits, one stacked above the other, split the supply between drinking water for the city and irrigation water for surrounding farmland. Walking along the surviving stretches in Ciudad Jardín, visitors can still see the stone arches and bridge spans that convey the scale of this two-and-a-half-century-old undertaking.

Where does the name come from?

The structure was originally named after its founder, Bishop Molina Lario. In 1804, management of the aqueduct passed to the Colegio Naval de San Telmo (San Telmo Naval College), and it has carried that name ever since.

Is it worth visiting?

The aqueduct supplied Málaga continuously from the late 18th century until the mid-20th century, when it gradually fell out of use as the city built a modern water network. In 2009, it was listed as a Bien de Interés Cultural (an asset of cultural interest) under the historic site category, recognising its value as an industrial heritage landmark. For travellers interested in 18th-century engineering and architecture, it's an unusual, quiet stop that complements a visit to central Málaga away from the main tourist routes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed the Acueducto de San Telmo? Architect José Martín de Aldehuela designed the aqueduct, commissioned by Bishop José de Molina Lario y Navarro.

When was the aqueduct built? Construction ran from October 1782 to September 1784, following approval by King Carlos III.

Where did the aqueduct get its water? Water was drawn from the Guadalmedina river and carried into the city over a distance of 10.8 km.

Why is it called San Telmo? The name comes from the Colegio Naval de San Telmo, which took over management of the aqueduct in 1804; before that, it bore the name of its founder, Bishop Molina Lario.